Reports in France suggested that Paris Saint-Germain would not extend Lionel Messi’s contract, according to L’Equipe. The discussions around renewing the Argentine star reportedly hinged on several factors, including an incident where Messi reportedly traveled to Saudi Arabia without authorization after a 1-3 defeat to Lorient in a league match. At that time, the club’s stance appeared to be shaped by a mix of on-field performance, disciplinary considerations, and broader strategic decisions from the leadership at PSG.
As the season progressed, talk persisted about Messi’s future with PSG. The contract was set to expire at the season’s end, which kept fans and analysts guessing about whether the club would pursue another extension or pivot toward a different plan for the attack and the wider squad. Throughout this period, observers noted that the decision would have implications not only for PSG but also for Messi’s career trajectory and the balance within the club’s roster, given the evolving dynamics of European football and the market for marquee players.
Meanwhile, speculation about a return to Barcelona gained momentum. The idea that Messi could rejoin the Catalan club had circulated for an extended period, with some reports claiming ongoing conversations with Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona’s head coach. It was noted that Messi’s potential return would hinge on the terms of any deal, the club’s tactical plans, and Messi’s own ambitions at that stage of his career. The notion of a Barcelona reunion attracted broad interest, fueled by the history of a long and storied relationship between Messi and the club that helped define a generation of football.
Former Russian international and Spanish club Celta Vigo veteran Alexander Mostovoy added his perspective, declaring that Barcelona would be fortunate if Messi decided to come back to the Catalan side. Such public comments amplified the sense that Messi’s next move could carry substantial emotional and sporting significance for Barcelona supporters and for the wider European football landscape. Yet any decision would rest with Messi, the club’s leadership, and the evolving realities of the transfer market, making the future both uncertain and highly watched by fans, pundits, and rival clubs alike.